Humane Society Urges Owners To Bring Pets Indoors

A Beauce Sheep dog covered by snow is pictured on March 12, 2013 in Godewaersvelde, northern France, after a heavy snow storm. Overnight on March 12 nearly 500 cars were blocked near Cherbourg where snowdrifts piled up 60 centimetres (almost two feet) as winds reached 100 kilometres (more than 60 miles) an hour. Twenty-six regions in northwest and northern France were put on orange alert because of heavy snowfalls, which Meteo France said were "remarkable for the season because of the expected quantity and length of time". AFP PHOTO PHILIPPE HUGUEN (Photo credit should read PHILIPPE HUGUEN/AFP/Getty Images)A dog covered by snow. (Getty Images/Philippe Huguen)

DETROIT (WWJ) – Bitter cold weather is here and with temperatures expected to plummet — animals left outdoors are in extreme danger.

WWJ’s Chrystal Knight reports that the Humane Society’s Cruelty Investigation team is already responding to high numbers of weather related calls, and the Michigan Humane Society is urging pet owners to protect their animals.

If any animal is outside for any length of time – know that you are required by law in Michigan to provide enough food and water as well as adequate shelter to protect your pet from the winter weather.

The Humane Society is warning pet owners, while it’s not the law, it’s best to bring pets indoors during these dangerously cold temperatures — especially those with short hair.

Animal welfare officials are asking for people to keep watch for any animals which may be in danger – in Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park call 313-872-3401 that’s the Michigan Humane Society’s Cruelty Hotline if you fear an animal is in distress.

If you are a pet owner experiencing financial difficulties – the Animal Welfare Society may be able to provide assistance with pet food – or if you are able to donate pet food – click on HERE.

For more information about pet health and safety, visit www.michiganhumane.org or click on HERE to find out more about donating straw for animals.